JAMMU, SEPTEMBER 05, 2026 : Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Saturday expressed hope that the Centre would fulfil its commitments on the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, saying the issue was among several key matters raised by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah during his recent meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Choudhary said that whenever the Chief Minister visits New Delhi and meets the Prime Minister, Home Minister or other Union Ministers, he consistently raises issues concerning the development and interests of Jammu and Kashmir.
According to the Deputy CM, the recent meeting with Amit Shah covered several matters, including:
- Restoration of statehood
- Rationalisation of reservations
- Finalisation of business rules
- The upcoming first international Filmfare festival in Srinagar
Choudhary said he hoped the Centre would honour the commitment regarding statehood made in Parliament, before the Supreme Court and to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
MBBS INTERNS’ STIPEND ISSUE
On the ongoing strike by MBBS interns over alleged disparities in monthly stipends, Choudhary said the government was examining the issue comprehensively.
He described doctors as an important part of the public healthcare system and said the government was considering the matter in its entirety rather than addressing it as an isolated issue.
ATTACK ON BJP OVER SRINAGAR PROTEST
Reacting to the September 2 BJP protest at Lal Chowk in Srinagar, Choudhary termed it political “drama” and accused the opposition party of diverting attention from problems facing Jammu.
He challenged the BJP leadership to address concerns of transporters, hoteliers, industrialists and unemployed youth in Jammu rather than staging protests in Srinagar.
Choudhary also questioned the representation of local officers, academics and professionals from Jammu and Kashmir in important positions within the Union Territory.
‘WHY CAN’T OUR OFFICERS BE APPOINTED HERE?’
The Deputy Chief Minister questioned why officers from Jammu and Kashmir who are appointed to senior positions in other states and Union Territories could not similarly be considered for important positions within J&K.
He also raised questions over appointments in universities and premier institutions, asking why qualified local professionals could not be considered for positions such as directors and vice-chancellors.
Choudhary said the issue was closely linked to the aspirations of young professionals and government employees, and called for greater opportunities for local talent.
The remarks come amid continuing political debate in Jammu and Kashmir over statehood restoration, governance, representation and employment opportunities.
